Pelican Technical Article:

One common failure on the BME E36
vehicles is the brake lightswitch.
Have you noticed that the brakes lights fail to come on when you press the
pedal? Itís possible that switch may need to be replaced.In this tech article, we will discuss replacement of the switch.

The first step is to remove the
screws that hold the plastic panel on underneath
the steering column. This will allow you to remove the panel to gain access
to the switch.

Now, look up under the dash. The
brake light switch is located underneath the top of the brake pedal arm,
under the dash. When you have located the switch on the brake pedal, remove
the wire harness that plugs into it, and set it aside.

Once you have the wire harness off, youíll see that the switch seems
stuck in place. What you need to do is first break the small red tab on the
switch, and then start the engine. Starting the engine will make it easier
to push the brake pedal down. Youíll need to push the pedal to disengage
the switch. This will free up the switch.Once the old switch is free, simply pop the new brake switch into the
bracket, and press the red tab on the switch to lock it into place. Once the
switch is in place, re-connect the wire harness to the switch.

Now is a good time to check the
switch.Turn the car on and
have a helper check the rear lights. Now simply push the brake pedal like
you would on any car.Do the
lights come on? If not, recheck the steps listed.

Once
the new switch is in, and you have verified that the switch is working, the
last step is to re-install the lower steering column panel under the dash.

Well, there you have it - it's
really not too difficult at all. If you would like
to see more technical articles like this one, please continue
to support Pelican Parts with all your parts needs. If
you like what you see here, then please visit our online BMW
catalog and help support the collection and creating of
new and informative technical articles like this one.
Your continued support directly affects the expansion and
existence of this site and technical articles like this
one. As always, if you have any questions or comments
about this helpful article, please drop us a
line.